Optimization of traffic load in a distributed antenna system

ABSTRACT

A system for dynamically routing signals in a Distributed Antenna System includes a plurality of Digital Access Units (DAUs). The plurality of DAUs are coupled and operable to route signals between the plurality of DAUs. The system also includes a plurality of Digital Remote Units (DRUs) coupled to the plurality of DAUs and operable to transport signals between DRUs and DAUs and a plurality of Base Transceiver Stations (BTS). The system further includes a plurality of traffic monitoring modules and a network optimization goal and optimization algorithm.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of pending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/950,160 filed Jul. 24, 2013 entitled “OPTIMIZATION OFTRAFFIC LOAD IN A DISTRIBUTED ANTENNA SYSTEM”, which application claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/678,016, filed onJul. 31, 2012, entitled “OPTIMIZATION OF TRAFFIC LOAD IN A DISTRIBUTEDANTENNA SYSTEM”. The aforementioned applications are incorporated hereinby reference, in their entirety, for any purpose.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to wireless communicationsystems employing Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) as part of adistributed wireless network. More specifically, the present inventionrelates to a DAS utilizing traffic monitoring and optimization. Wirelessnetwork operators faces the continuing challenge of building networksthat effectively manage high data-traffic growth rates. Mobility and anincreased level of multimedia content for end users typically employsend-to-end network adaptations that support new services and theincreased demand for broadband and flat-rate Internet access. One of themost difficult challenges faced by network operators is caused by thephysical movement of subscribers from one location to another, andparticularly when wireless subscribers congregate in large numbers atone location. A notable example is a business enterprise facility duringlunchtime, when a large number of wireless subscribers visit a lunchroom or cafeteria location in the building. At that time, a large numberof subscribers have moved away from their offices and usual work areas.It's likely that during lunchtime, there are many locations throughoutthe facility where there are very few subscribers. If the indoorwireless network resources were properly sized during the design processfor subscriber loading as it is during normal working hours whensubscribers are in their normal work areas, it is very likely that thelunchtime scenario will present some unexpected challenges with regardto available wireless capacity and data throughput.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a system fordynamically routing signals in a Distributed Antenna System is provided.The system includes a plurality of Digital Access Units (DAUs). Theplurality of DAUs are coupled and operable to route signals between theplurality of DAUs. The system also includes a plurality of DigitalRemote Units (DRUs) coupled to the plurality of DAUs and operable totransport signals between DRUs and DAUs. The system further includes oneor more Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) and one or more trafficmonitoring units.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a system fordynamically routing signals in a Distributed Antenna System is provided.The system includes a plurality of Digital Access Units (DAUs). Theplurality of DAUs are coupled and operable to route signals between theplurality of DAUs. The system also includes a plurality of DigitalRemote Units (DRUs) coupled to the plurality of DAUs and operable totransport signals between DRUs and DAUs and a plurality of BaseTransceiver Stations (BTS). The system further includes a plurality oftraffic monitoring modules and a network optimization goal andoptimization algorithm.

In an embodiment, a system for dynamically routing signals in aDistributed Antenna System is provided and includes a plurality ofDigital Access Units (DAUs). The plurality of DAUs are coupled andoperable to route signals between the plurality of DAUs. The system alsoincludes a plurality of Digital Remote Units (DRUs) coupled to theplurality of DAUs and operable to transport signals between DRUs andDAUs and one or more Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs). The systemfurther includes a traffic monitoring unit.

Numerous benefits are achieved by way of the present invention overconventional techniques. For example, embodiments of the presentinvention provide for traffic monitoring in a DAS network, improvingnetwork performance and user experience. These and other embodiments ofthe invention along with many of its advantages and features aredescribed in more detail in conjunction with the text below and attachedfigures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram according to one embodiment of the inventionshowing the basic structure and an example of the transport routing,traffic monitoring and network optimization based on having a single 3sector BTS with 3 DAUs and 7 DRUs daisy chained together for each cell.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram according to one embodiment of the inventionshowing the basic structure for a frequency reuse pattern of N=1 and anexample of the transport routing, traffic monitoring and networkoptimization based on having a single 3 sector BTS with 3 DAUs and 7DRUs daisy chained together for each cell.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram according to one embodiment of the inventionshowing the basic structure and an example of the transport routing,traffic monitoring and network optimization based on having multiple 3sector BTSs with 3 DAUs and 7 DRUs daisy chained together for each cell.In this embodiment, multiple three sector base stations are connected toa daisy chained DAS network.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a Digital Access Unit (DAU), which containsPhysical Nodes, a Local Router, and Port Traffic Monitoring capabilityaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a Digital Remote Unit (DRU), which containsPhysical Nodes, a Remote Router, and Port Traffic Monitoring capabilityaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 depicts a typical topology where multiple Local Routers areinterconnected with multiple Remote Routers along with Trafficmonitoring and Network Optimization functionality according to anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 depicts a typical topology where multiple Local Routers areinterconnected with multiple Remote Routers along with Trafficmonitoring at each Picocell and Network Optimization functionalityaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 depicts a typical topology where multiple Local Routers areinterconnected with multiple Remote Routers along with Trafficmonitoring at each Picocell and Network Optimization functionalityaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a simplified flowchart illustrating a method of optimizing theDAS network according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a simplified flowchart illustrating a method of calculatingKPIs and QoS for a DAS network according to an embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 11 is a simplified flowchart illustrating an optimization algorithmaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

To accommodate variations in wireless subscriber loading at wirelessnetwork antenna locations at various times of day and for different daysof the week, there are several candidate conventional approaches.

One approach is to deploy many low-power high-capacity base stationsthroughout the facility. The quantity of base stations is determinedbased on the coverage of each base station and the total space to becovered. Each of these base stations is provisioned with enough radioresources, i.e., capacity and broadband data throughput to accommodatethe maximum subscriber loading which occurs during the course of theworkday and work week. Although this approach typically yields a highquality of service for wireless subscribers, the notable disadvantage ofthis approach is that many of the base stations' capacity is beingwasted for a large part of the time. Since a typical indoor wirelessnetwork deployment involves capital and operational costs which areassessed on a per-subscriber basis for each base station, the typicallyhigh total life cycle cost for a given enterprise facility is far fromoptimal.

A second candidate approach involves deployment of a DAS along with acentralized group of base stations dedicated to the DAS. A conventionalDAS deployment falls into one of two categories. The first type of DASis “fixed”, where the system configuration doesn't change based on timeof day or other information about usage. The remote units associatedwith the DAS are set up during the design process so that a particularblock of base station radio resources is thought to be enough to serveeach small group of DAS remote units. A notable disadvantage of thisapproach is that most enterprises seem to undergo frequentre-arrangements and re-organizations of various staff groups within theenterprise. Therefore, it's highly likely that the initial DAS setupwill need to be changed from time to time, requiring deployment ofadditional direct staff and contract resources with appropriate levelsof expertise regarding wireless networks.

The second type of DAS is equipped with a type of network switch whichallows the location and quantity of DAS remote units associated with anyparticular centralized base station to be changed manually. Althoughthis approach would appear to support dynamic DAS reconfiguration basedon the needs of the enterprise or based on time of day, it frequentlyimplies that additional staff resources would need to be assigned toprovide real-time management of the network. Another issue is that it'snot always correct or best to make the same DAS remote unitconfiguration changes back and forth on each day of the week at the sametimes of day. Frequently it is difficult or impractical for anenterprise IT manager to monitor the subscriber loading on each basestation. And it is almost certain that the enterprise IT manager has nopractical way to determine the loading at a given time of day for eachDAS remote unit; they can only guess the percentage loading.

Another major limitation of conventional DAS deployments is related totheir installation, commissioning and optimization process. Somechallenging issues which must be overcome include selecting remote unitantenna locations to ensure proper coverage while minimizing downlinkinterference from outdoor macro cell sites, minimizing uplinkinterference to outdoor macro cell sites, and ensuring properintra-system handovers while indoors and while moving from outdoors toindoors (and vice-versa). The process of performing such deploymentoptimization is frequently characterized as trial-and-error. Therefore,the results may not be consistent with a high quality of service.

Based on the conventional approaches described herein, it is apparentthat a highly efficient, easily deployed and dynamically reconfigurablewireless network is not achievable with conventional systems andcapabilities. Embodiments of the present invention substantiallyovercome the limitations of the conventional approach discussed above.The advanced system architecture provided by embodiments of the presentinvention provides a high degree of flexibility to manage, control,enhance and facilitate radio resource efficiency, usage and overallperformance of the distributed wireless network. This advanced systemarchitecture enables specialized applications and enhancementsincluding, but not limited to, flexible simulcast, automatic trafficload-balancing, network and radio resource optimization, networkcalibration, autonomous/assisted commissioning, carrier pooling,automatic frequency selection, radio frequency carrier placement,traffic monitoring, and/or traffic tagging. Embodiments of the presentinvention can also serve multiple operators, multi-mode radios(modulation-independent) and multiple frequency bands per operator toincrease the efficiency and traffic capacity of the operators' wirelessnetworks.

Accordingly, embodiments of this architecture provide a capability forFlexible Simulcast. With Flexible Simulcast, the amount of radioresources (such as RF carriers, LTE Resource Blocks, CDMA codes or TDMAtime slots) assigned to a particular DRU or group of DRUs can be set viasoftware control to meet desired capacity and throughput objectives orwireless subscriber needs. Applications of the present invention aresuitable to be employed with distributed base stations, distributedantenna systems, distributed repeaters, mobile equipment and wirelessterminals, portable wireless devices, and other wireless communicationsystems such as microwave and satellite communications.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a trafficmonitoring unit is provided as a component of one or more elements ofthe system, enabling measurement of the network traffic in the network.A network optimization goal and optimization algorithm is also providedso that based on traffic measurements, which is typically a function ofthe number of users on the system, performance of the network isoptimized using the goal and associated algorithm.

As an example of traffic monitoring, the system could track the power ofthe down link or the power of the uplink. Another example, would includesome signal processing, including examining certain control signals, forexample, pilot signals sent by mobile devices. By locking onto thesecontrol signals, the traffic monitor can obtain information on thenumber of users using various components of the system.

A distributed antenna system (DAS) provides an efficient means ofutilization of base station resources. The base station or base stationsassociated with a DAS can be located in a central location and/orfacility commonly known as a base station hotel. The DAS networkcomprises one or more digital access units (DAUs) that function as theinterface between the base stations and the digital remote units (DRUs).The DAUs can be collocated with the base stations. The DRUs can be daisychained together and/or placed in a star configuration and providecoverage for a given geographical area. The DRUs are typically connectedwith the DAUs by employing a high-speed optical fiber link. Thisapproach facilitates transport of the RF signals from the base stationsto a remote location or area served by the DRUs. A typical base stationcomprises 3 independent radio resources, commonly known as sectors.These 3 sectors are typically used to cover 3 separate geographicalareas without creating co-channel interference between users in the 3distinct sectors.

Traffic monitoring in a DAS network is provided by embodiments of thepresent invention, which has not been performed in conventional systems.As described herein, the traffic monitoring unit can be implemented as astand-alone unit in conjunction with one or more system components,including DAUs, DRUs, a BTS, a BTS hotel, or the like.

Once traffic resources are aggregated into eNodeB hotels, the discreteresources of a single eNodeB are still allocated to a specific set ofantennas associated with that eNodeB and providing coverage to aspecific geographic area. The traffic resources are fixed, i.e., onlythe resources associated with a specific eNodeB can be allocated to theantennas associated with that eNodeB. However, because the eNodeBs arecollocated in an eNodeB hotel, the system can use the aggregated trafficresources of the discrete eNodeBs as a single, pooled traffic resourcethat can be allocated according to various algorithms. Assumptions aretypically predicated on worst-case traffic assets in all areas, networkdesign is wasteful 99 percent of the time, inevitably resulting in over-or under-provisioning of fixed resources. Traffic resources either gounused (idle channels), or are under-provisioned and are insufficient tohandle the offered traffic. Both circumstances give rise to the sameoutcome: lost revenue and lost opportunity. When a site's trafficresources are idle and unused, the traffic asset fails to provide anoptimal return on investment. But a site that lacks sufficient capacityto support the offered traffic at any point during the day garnersdropped calls, lost revenue opportunity, and dissatisfied customers. Thetraffic information derived from an extensive sensor network will beused to dynamically allocate the traffic resources to the requiredgeographical areas only for the time period the service is needed. Oncethe service is supplied and the traffic sensor network determines thatthe traffic resources are no longer required, they are returned to theresource pool for reallocation. The entire network automaticallyreconfigures itself based on the perceived (sensed) need or in the eventof disruption due to natural or manmade events. Geographic loadbalancing using DAS is recognized as a new approach for traffic loadbalancing which provides dynamic load redistribution in real timeaccording to the current geographic traffic conditions. It can be usedto improve the performance for any distributed systems containingnon-uniformly distributed traffic, especially for resolving traffic hotspots.

The network's performance (expressed by the number of KPIs (KeyPerformance Indicators) from different parts of the network) determinesthe QoS values. Different operators may have different defined businessgoals and different services of interest. Based on these considerations,efficient and cost effective network performance management varies fromoperator to operator. Therefore, QoS metrics could be defined and mappedto a set of KPIs.

An embodiment shown in FIG. 1 illustrates a basic DAS networkarchitecture according to an embodiment of the present invention andprovides an example of a data transport network, traffic monitoring andnetwork optimization scenario between a 3 sector Base Station andmultiple DRUs. In this embodiment, the DRUs are daisy chained togetherto achieve coverage in a specific geographical area. Each individualsector covers an independent geographical area, which is identified as aCell. Although embodiments are discussed in terms of optimization of DASnetworks, the term optimization is properly understood to includeperformance improvements in comparison to conventional systems, even ifcomplete optimization is not achieved. Thus, optimization does notrequire the maximum values for traffic management metrics, but alsoincludes distribution of traffic that improves system performance whileremaining short of maximum performance.

FIG. 1 depicts a DAS system employing multiple Digital Remote Units(DRUs) and multiple Digital Access Units (DAUs). In accordance with thepresent invention, each DRU provides unique information associated witheach DRU which uniquely identifies uplink data received by thatparticular Digital Remote Unit.

One feature of embodiments of the present invention is the ability toroute Base Station radio resources among the DRUs or group(s) of DRUs.In order to route radio resources available from one or more BaseStations, it is desirable to configure the individual router tables ofthe DAUs and DRUs in the DAS network. This functionality is provided byembodiments of the present invention.

The DAUs are networked together to facilitate the routing of DRU signalsamong multiple DAUs. The DAUs support the transport of the RF downlinkand RF uplink signals between the Base Station and the DRUs. Thisarchitecture enables the various Base Station signals to be transportedto and from multiple DRUs. PEER ports are used for interconnecting DAUsand interconnecting DRUs.

The DAUs have the capability to control the gain (in small incrementsover a wide range) of the downlink and uplink signals that aretransported between the DAU and the base station (or base stations)connected to that DAU. This capability provides flexibility tosimultaneously control the uplink and downlink connectivity of the pathbetween a particular DRU (or a group of DRUs via the associated DAU orDAUs) and a particular base station sector.

Embodiments of the present invention use router tables to configure thenetworked DAUs. The local router tables establish the mapping of theinputs to the various outputs. Internal Merge blocks are utilized forthe Downlink Tables when the inputs from an External Port and a PEERPort need to merge into the same data stream. Similarly, Merge blocksare used in the Uplink Tables when the inputs from the LAN Ports andPEER Ports need to merge into the same data stream.

The remote router tables establish the mapping of the inputs to thevarious outputs. Internal Merge blocks are utilized for the DownlinkTables when the inputs from a LAN Port and a PEER Port need to mergeinto the same data stream. Similarly, Merge blocks are used in theUplink Tables when the inputs from the External Ports and PEER Portsneed to merge into the same data stream.

As shown in FIG. 1, the individual base station sector's radio resourcesare transported to a daisy-chained network of DRUs. Each individualsector's radio resources provide coverage to an independent geographicalarea via the networked DRUs. FIG. 1 demonstrates how three cells, eachcell comprising an independent network of 7 DRUs, provide coverage to agiven geographical area. A server is utilized to control the switchingfunction provided in the DAS network. Referring to FIG. 1 and by way ofexample, DAU 1 (102) receives downlink signals from BTS Sector 1 (101).DAU 1 translates the RF signals to optical signals and the optical fibercable 103 transports the desired signals to DRU 2 (104). Optical cable105 transports all the optical signals to DRU 3 (106). The other DRUs inthe daisy chain are involved in passing the optical signals onward toDRU 1 (107). DAU 1 (102) is networked with DAU 2 (108) to allow thedownlink signals from Sector 2 (109) and Sector 3 (110) to betransported to all the DRUs in Cell 1. The system's switching androuting functions enable the selection of which sectors' signals aretransmitted and received by each DRU.

An embodiment illustrating a Traffic monitoring unit (121) at the DAUsis included to track the traffic load at each DAU in the network. Thetraffic load associated with each DAU is collected and stored in theNetwork Optimization Unit (120). The optimization unit (120) calculatesthe overall DAS network performance and determines the optimumreconfigured network to improve or maximize performance. Utilizing thetraffic monitoring unit 121 in conjunction with the DAUs provides foroptimization of the DAS network through a traffic monitoring unitexternal to the DAUs. Thus, embodiments of the present invention providefor traffic monitoring in a DAS network. Optimization of the DAS networkcan then be performed using information related to the trafficmonitoring.

Referring to FIG. 1, the traffic monitor unit 121 can be a serverdetermining the number of users on each DAU, with each DAU havingmultiple ports in some embodiments. Data from the traffic monitor unit121 is then provided to the network optimization unit 120, which can bethe same server including the traffic monitor unit or a differentserver. The network optimization unit 120 (which can be software runningon a server) can model the rebalancing of the traffic load and, afterdetermining that the performance will be acceptable, implements the loadrebalancing by communicating with the DAUs and shifting traffic betweensectors. Although the network optimization unit 120 is illustrated ascoupled to the DAUs in FIG. 1, this is not required by embodiments ofthe present invention and the network optimization could be performed atone of the DRUs, with data regarding network optimization beingtransmitted back to the DAUs using, for example, using an Ethernetbackhaul connecting the DRUs to the DAUs. Thus, the network optimizationserver could be located at one of the DRUs, controlling the entirenetwork from that location. One of ordinary skill in the art wouldrecognize many variations, modifications, and alternatives.

The network optimization unit can implement a network optimization goal,which may relate to the number of users per sector, for example, thateach sector carry a percentage of traffic less than 50% of the totaltraffic, less than 40% of the total traffic, or less than 35% of thetotal traffic, that each sector have less than 50% of the users, lessthan 40% of the users, less than 35% of the users, or that each sectorhave 33% of the users, or the like. Thus, the optimization goals caninclude metrics of the system performance. Although the system may notreach the goals, progress toward the goals can be provided, improvingthe user experience.

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment illustrating how a single base station can beused to provide coverage for a larger geographical area when a frequencyreuse pattern of N=1 is used. Referring to FIG. 2, cell 1 and cell 8would share the radio resources of sector 1 of the base station.Similarly, cell 2 and cell 10 would share the radio resources of sector2.

The DAUs control the routing of data between the base station and theDRUs. Each individual data packet is provided with a header thatuniquely identifies which DRU it is associated with. The DAUs areinterconnected to allow transport of data among multiple DAUs. Thisfeature provides the unique flexibility in the DAS network to routesignals between the sectors and the individual DRUs. A server isutilized to control the switching function provided in the DAS network.Referring to FIG. 2, and by way of example, DAU 1 (202) receivesdownlink signals from BTS 1 Sector 1 (201). DAU 1 translates the RFsignals to optical signals and the optical fiber cable 203 transportsthe desired signals to DRU 2 (204). Optical cable 205 transports all theoptical signals to DRU 3 (206). The other DRUs in the daisy chain areinvolved in passing the optical signals onward to DRU 1 (207). DAU 1(202) is networked with DAU 2 (208) to allow the downlink signals fromSector 2 and Sector 3 to be transported to all the DRUs in Cell 1.Optical fiber cable 209 transports the desired signals to DRU 23 (210).Optical cable 211 transports all the optical signals to DRU 24 (212).The other DRUs in the daisy chain are involved in passing the opticalsignals onward to DRU 22 (213). An embodiment illustrating a Trafficmonitoring unit (221) at the DAUs is included to track the traffic loadat each DAU in the network. The traffic load associated with each DAU iscollected and stored in the Network Optimization Unit (220). Theoptimization unit (220) calculates the overall DAS network performanceand determines the optimum reconfigured network to maximize performance.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment illustrating an application employing a basestation hotel where N BTSs are interconnected to serve a givengeographical area. The base stations may represent independent wirelessnetwork operators and/or multiple standards (WCDMA, LTE, etc.) or theymay represent provision of additional RF carriers. The base stationsignals may be combined before they are connected to a DAU, as may bethe case for a Neutral Host application. Referring to FIG. 3 and by wayof example, DAU 1 (302) receives downlink signals from BTS Sector 1(301). DAU 1 translates the RF signals to optical signals and theoptical fiber cable 303 transports the desired signals to DRU 2 (304).Optical cable 305 transports all the optical signals to DRU 3 (306). Theother DRUs in the daisy chain are involved in passing the opticalsignals onward to DRU 1 (307). DAU 1 (302) is networked with DAU 2 (308)to allow the downlink signals from BTS 1 Sector 2 to be transported toall the DRUs in Cell 1. DAU 1 (302) receives downlink signals from BTSSector N (309). DAU 1 translates the RF signals to optical signals andthe optical fiber cable 303 transports the desired signals to DRU 2(304). Optical cable 305 transports all the optical signals to DRU 3(306). The other DRUs in the daisy chain are involved in passing theoptical signals onward to DRU 1 (307). The additional base stationsprovide the capability to add capacity for Cell 1.

In order to efficiently utilize the limited base station resources, thenetwork of DRUs should have the capability of re-directing theirindividual uplink and downlink signals to and from any of the BTSsectors. Because the DRUs data traffic has unique streams, the DAURouter has the mechanism to route the signal to different sectors. Anembodiment illustrating a Traffic monitoring unit (321) at the DAUs isincluded to track the traffic load at each DAU in the network. Thetraffic load associated with each DAU is collected and stored in theNetwork Optimization Unit (320). The optimization unit (320) calculatesthe overall DAS network performance and determines the optimumreconfigured network to maximize performance.

FIG. 4 shows the two primary elements in a DAU, the Physical Nodes (400)and the Local Router (401). The Physical Nodes translate the RF signalsto baseband for the Downlink and from baseband to RF for the Uplink. TheLocal Router directs the traffic between the various LAN Ports, PEERPorts and the External Ports. The physical nodes connect to the BTS atradio frequencies (RF). The physical nodes can be used for differentoperators, different frequency bands, different channels, or the like.The physical nodes can combine the downlink and uplink signals via aduplexer or they can keep them separate, as would be the case for asimplex configuration. In one embodiment, Traffic monitoring (416)capability is provided in each DAU for determining the traffic load ateach of the DAU ports. In this embodiment, the traffic monitoringfunction is performed in each DAU in comparison with otherimplementations in which the traffic monitoring is performed externally.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment whereby the physical nodes have separateoutputs for the uplinks (405) and separate inputs for the downlink paths(404). The physical node translates the signals from RF to baseband forthe downlink path and from baseband to RF for the uplink path. Thephysical nodes are connected to a Local Router via external ports(409,410)). The router directs the uplink data stream from the LAN andPEER ports to the selected External U ports. Similarly, the routerdirects the downlink data stream from the External D ports to theselected LAN and PEER ports.

In one embodiment, the LAN and PEER ports are connected via an opticalfiber to a network of DAUs and DRUs. The network connection can also usecopper interconnections such as CAT 5 or 6 cabling, or other suitableinterconnection equipment. The DAU is also connected to the internetnetwork using IP (406). An Ethernet connection (408) is also used tocommunicate between the Host Unit and the DAU. The DRU can also connectdirectly to the Remote Operational Control center (407) via the Ethernetport.

FIG. 5 shows the two primary elements in a DRU, the Physical Nodes (501)and the Remote Router (500). The DRU includes both a Remote Router andPhysical Nodes. The Remote Router directs the traffic between the LANports, External Ports and PEER Ports. The physical nodes connect to theBTS at radio frequencies (RF). The physical nodes can be used fordifferent operators, different frequency bands, different channels, etc.FIG. 5 shows an embodiment whereby the physical nodes have separateinputs for the uplinks (504) and separate outputs for the downlink paths(503). The physical node translates the signals from RF to baseband forthe uplink path and from baseband to RF for the downlink path. Thephysical nodes are connected to a Remote Router via external ports(506,507). The router directs the downlink data stream from the LAN andPEER ports to the selected External D ports. Similarly, the routerdirects the uplink data stream from the External U ports to the selectedLAN and PEER ports. The DRU also contains a Ethernet Switch (505) sothat a remote computer or wireless access points can connect to theinternet.

In one embodiment, the traffic monitoring (516) capability is providedin each DRU for determining the traffic load at each of the DRU ports.In this embodiment, the traffic monitoring function is performed in eachDRU in comparison with other implementations in which the trafficmonitoring is performed externally.

As shown in FIG. 6, the base station hotel (610) is comprised ofmultiple Picocells. The Picocells are typically wireless operatordependent and frequency band dependent. Picocells that operate in thesame frequency band are combined at RF and input to the respective DAUs.The DAU radio resources from the combined Picocells are transported to adaisy-chained network of DRUs. Each individual DAUs radio resourcesprovide coverage to an independent geographical area via the networkedDRUs. FIG. 6 demonstrates how multiple DAUs, each cell comprising anindependent network of 7 DRUs, provide coverage to a given geographicalarea. In one embodiment, the traffic monitoring functionality is locatedin an external Traffic Monitoring Unit (621), which is connected to thenetwork of DAUs.

As shown in FIG. 7, the base station hotel (710) is comprised ofmultiple Picocells. The Picocells are typically wireless operatordependent and frequency band dependent. Picocells that operate in thesame frequency band are combined at RF and input to the respective DAUs.The DAU radio resources from the combined Picocells are transported to adaisy-chained network of DRUs. Each individual DAUs radio resourcesprovide coverage to an independent geographical area via the networkedDRUs. FIG. 7 demonstrates how multiple DAUs, each cell comprising anindependent network of 7 DRUs, provide coverage to a given geographicalarea. In one embodiment, the traffic monitoring functionality is locatedin an external Traffic Monitoring Unit (721), which is connected to thePicocells. The BTS Hotel 710 includes a plurality of Picocells that arecoupled to traffic monitoring unit 720. The traffic information flowsfrom the Picocells to the traffic monitoring unit, which uses thistraffic information to optimize the DAS network. The traffic monitoringunit 820 works in conjunction with network optimization unit 721, whichcan include traffic management algorithms used to distribute trafficefficiently throughout the DAS network.

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of a base station hotel (810), which iscomprised of multiple picocells that are interconnected to a network ofDAUs via a digital interface (830).

FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of the DAS network optimization flowdiagram. The Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of the network trafficare collected at the various network nodes (910). KPI may compriseinformation such as: number of blocked calls, number of active calls,average power of uplink channels, average power of downlink channels,traffic on each sector, failed calls, number of satisfied users, numberof unsatisfied users, number of users operating through a given DRU, andthe like.

The DAS network performance is then analyzed in the context of theavailable DAS network radio resources (912). An optimization algorithmis applied to the existing DAS network with the objective to determinethe optimum routing of network traffic (914). Once an optimum DASnetwork has been determined then an estimate of the reconfigured DASnetwork performance is determined (916). The reconfigured DAS network isevaluated prior to an implementation to insure that the performance willbe acceptable. If the reconfigured DAS network has been determined to beacceptable then the reconfigured DAS network is implemented (918) andthe entire process is repeated. In an embodiment, the load on thesectors prior to reconfiguration and after the proposed reconfigurationcan be compared to determine if the shifting of the DRUs to the othersectors improves the system performance.

Thus, using the KPIs of the network traffic, the DAS network can bemodified to improve system performance. As an example, if a particularDRU has a higher load than other adjacent DRUs, traffic can be routed tothe adjacent DRUs in order to reduce the load on the particular DRU.Additional description related to load balancing is provided in U.S.Patent Application No. 61/600,530, filed on Feb. 17, 2012, entitled“Evolutionary Algorithms for Geographic Load Balancing Using aDistributed Antenna System,” the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

As an example of optimizing network performance, a base stationtypically has three sectors. The DRU can be allocated to differentsectors in order to improve performance by shifting traffic from a firstsector (e.g., a high traffic sector) to a second sector (e.g., a lowtraffic sector) by shifting a DRU allocated to the first sector to thesecond sector. Although some embodiments of the present invention willnot optimize performance of the system, the system performance can beimproved using the techniques described herein, for example, bymeasuring the traffic load on the DRUs, performing load balancing of thetraffic on the DRUs, to reduce the load on a first DRU characterized bya first traffic load by shifting the load to a second DRU characterizedby a second traffic load less than the first traffic load. In theoptimization process, system performance can be measured against apredetermined threshold, with the optimization process terminating oncethe predetermined threshold has been reached. One of ordinary skill inthe art would recognize many variations, modifications, andalternatives.

As another example, power settings for the DRUs can be modified toimprove system performance as discussed in additional detail in U.S.Patent Application No. 61/669,572, filed on Jul. 9, 2012 and entitled,“A Self-Optimizing Distributed Antenna System Using Soft FrequencyReuse,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference inits entirety for all purposes.

FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of the DAS network calculation of theKPIs and QoS. The important parameters for determining the DAS networkQoS include the number of users allocated to a given DRU, the spatialdistance between the various DRUs, as well as identifying which DRUs areassigned to which BTS sector.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of the flow chart for theoptimization algorithm. In this embodiment an Estimation DistributionAlgorithm (EDA) is used. Various DRU allocation scenarios areinvestigated to determine the optimum DRU scenario that achieves thehighest QoS. In an embodiment, the initial population is generated(1110). The traffic information (KPIs) is analyzed and trafficperformance (QoS) for all sectorization is analyzed (1112). A sortprocedure is performed (1114) and a determination is made if theconvergence criterion are satisfied (1116). If so, the process isterminated. If not, then the generation counter is updated (1118), asort operation is performed (1120), the parameter F is computed (1122)and a new population is generated (1124). Then the method proceeds tothe traffic information and performance analysis (1112).

Network Optimization

The network's performance (expressed by the number of KPIs fromdifferent parts of the network) determines the QoS values. Differentoperators may have different defined business goals and differentservices of interest. Based on these considerations, efficient and costeffective network performance management varies from operator tooperator. Therefore, QoS metrics could be defined and mapped to a set ofKPIs. When a set of KPIs is used, then the mapping needs to berepresented by a weighted normalized function.

In this section we formulate the sectorization problem with mixedinteger programming to balance traffic among sectors and to minimizehandoffs with connected and compact sectors. Given the sectorization ofDRUs at time period t, our problem is to obtain new sectorization attime period t+1 that adaptively balances the change in traffic demands.

In order to formulate the problem, we consider a service coverage areawith NDRUs. Each DRU is assumed to have traffic demand T_(i) i=1, . . ., N. Note that, UEA belongs to DRU_(B) if the received uplink power fromUEA at DRU_(B) is greater than the other DRUs . Let p_(ij) be thetransition probability of mobiles from DRU_(i) to DRU_(j). Then, thehandoff calls from DRU_(i) to DRU_(j) become h_(ij)=p_(ij)T_(i). Thedistance between DRU_(i) and DRU_(j) is inversely proportional top_(ij). Assume that an eNodeB hotel has M VBSs. Let SOS_(m) and SOD_(k)be the set of sectors in VBS_(m) and the set of DRUs allocated toSector_(k), respectively, such that |SOS_(m)|=3 (if each eNodeB/VBS hasthree sectors), m=1, . . . , M and k=1, . . . , K. We consider thefollowing three cost factors (KPIs) in the sectorization problem:

KPI_(BC) (Inverse of the number of Blocked Calls): The penalty of theblocked calls caused by hard capacity and soft capacity. Let HC_(m) andSC_(k) be the hard capacity of VBS_(m) and soft capacity of Sector_(k)respectively such that

${HC}_{m} = {\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}{{SC}_{k}.}}$

The binary variable x_(ik)=1, when DRU_(i) belongs to Sector_(k).

${y_{im} = {\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}x_{ik}}},$

then y_(im)=1 DRU_(i) belongs to VBS_(m).

$\begin{matrix}{\mspace{79mu} {{sc}_{k} = \left\{ \begin{matrix}{0\ } & {{{if}{\; \ }{\sum\limits_{i}{T_{i}x_{ik}}}} < {SC_{k}}} \\{{{\sum\limits_{i}{T_{i}x_{ik}}} - {SC_{k}}}\ } & {otherwise}\end{matrix} \right.}} & \; \\{{hc}_{m} = {{{\sum\limits_{i}{T_{i}y_{im}}} - {HC_{m}}} = {{{\sum\limits_{i}{T_{i}{\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}x_{ik}}}} - {\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}{SC}_{k}}} = {{{\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}{\sum\limits_{i}{T_{i}x_{ik}}}} - {SC}_{k}} = {\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}{sc}_{k}}}}}} & (1)\end{matrix}$

Since a penalty occurs only when the calls are blocked, we apply justsc_(k) to the objective function, because the hc_(m) is a function ofsc_(k) and there is no need to add it as another term to the objectivefunction. sc_(k) is a nonnegative real variable. So,

$\begin{matrix}{{KPI}_{BC} = \left\lbrack {\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}{sc}_{k}} \right\rbrack^{- 1}} & (2)\end{matrix}$

KPI_(HO) (Inverse of the number of Handoffs): we consider threedifferent types of Handoffs:

A. Inter-eNodeB Handoff: When user equipment (UE) with an ongoing callmoves from one VBS to another VBS, then the UE needs an inter-eNodeBhandoff. Inter-eNodeB handoff is executed using the X2 interface (aslong as the UE does not leave the LTE coverage area) or S1 interface(when the UE leaves the serving cell). The X2 handoff includesestablishing a signaling connection using the X2 Application Part (X2AP)from the source to the target eNodeB. The target eNodeB updates the MME(Mobility Management Entity) with the new geographic position of the UE.To enable this procedure, the MME needs to communicate with S-GW(Serving Gateway) to negotiate the new endpoint. During the S1 handoff,the MME receives the relocation preparation request of the sourceeNodeB, it starts the handoff resource allocation procedure to requestthe necessary radio resource from the target eNodeB. After the targeteNodeB sends the required radio interface parameters embedded in ahandoff command message; the MME forwards this handoff command messagetransparently to the UE, which executes the handoff. The main procedureis triggered by the MME and executed by S-GW.

Let the binary variable z_(ijm)=1, when DRU_(i) and DRU_(j) belong toVBS_(m). Then the inter-eNodeB handoff cost is computed by using thevariable

${z_{ij} = {1 - {\sum\limits_{m}z_{ijm}}}},$

the cost becomes

${\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{j}{h_{ij}z_{ij}}}}.$

Note that inter-eNodeB handoff occurs when DRU_(i) and DRU_(j) belong todifferent VBS, i.e., z_(ijm)=0.

B. Intra-eNodeB Handoff: When a UE with an ongoing call moves from onesector to another in a VBS, then the mobile needs an intra-eNodeBhandoff. This procedure doesn't need to involve MME or S-GW because itcan be handled entirely within that VBS. Now by letting the binaryvariable w_(ijk)=1 when DRU_(i) and DRU_(j) belong to sector k, theintra-eNodeB handoff cost is computed by using two variablesw_(ij)−z_(ij) where

${w_{ij} = {1 - {\sum\limits_{k}w_{ijk}}}},$

the cost becomes

${\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{j}{h_{ij}\left( {w_{ij} - z_{ij}} \right)}}}.$

An intra-eNodeB handoff occurs when DRU_(i) and DRU_(j) belong todifferent sectors of the same VBS.

C. Forced Handoff: When a DRU changes its sector, all ongoing calls inthe cell have to change their pilot PN offsets for WCDMA. The cost offorced handoff is computed by employing the current sectorizationa_(ik), which is equal to zero when DRU_(i) is in Sector_(k). Since thecost occurs when DRU_(i) currently in another sector moves intoSector_(k), the cost becomes

${\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{k}{a_{ik}T_{i}x_{ik}}}}.$

The weighted combination of these three handoff cost would be:

$\begin{matrix}{{KPI}_{HO} = \left\lbrack {{c_{1}{\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{j}{h_{ij}z_{ij}}}}} + {c_{2}{\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{j}{h_{ij}\left( {w_{ij} - z_{ij}} \right)}}}} + {c_{3}{\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{k}{a_{ik}T_{i}x_{ik}}}}}} \right\rbrack^{- 1}} & (3)\end{matrix}$

KPI_(CI) (Inverse of the Compactness Index): we will try to minimize thelength of handoff border with the compactness index CI which isintroduced in Section II.B. In Equation (4) the numerator termrepresents the number of handoff DRU sides between two differentsectors.

$\begin{matrix}{{KPI}_{CI} = {\lbrack{CI}\rbrack^{- 1} = \left\lbrack \frac{\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{i < j}{w_{ij}B_{ij}}}}{\sum\limits_{i}{\sum\limits_{i < j}B_{ij}}} \right\rbrack^{- 1}}} & (4)\end{matrix}$

Where B_(ij)=1, if DRU_(i) and DRU_(j) are adjacent.Now we consider the following constraints required in the formulation:

-   1. each DRU has to belong to a sector, that is,

$\begin{matrix}{{\sum\limits_{k}x_{ik}} = {1\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i}} & (5)\end{matrix}$

-   2. The relationship between any two DRUs in a Sector_(k) has to    satisfy w_(ijk)=1 if and only if x_(ik)=x_(jk)=1. Thus we have:

w _(ijk) ≤x _(ik) , w _(ijk) ≤x _(jk) and w _(ijk) ≥x _(ik) +x _(jk)−1if all i,j and k   (6)

The relationship between two DRUs in a VBS_(m). z_(ijm)=1 if and only ify_(im)=y_(jm)=1 which leads to:

z _(ijm) ≤y _(im) , z _(ijm) ≤y _(jm) and z _(ijm) ≥y _(im) +y _(jm)−1if all i,j and k   (7)

-   3. Connected sectorization, if a sector has more than one DRU, then    the DRUs of the sector have to be connected. For the formulation of    connected sectors we employ the cut theorem [26] on SOD_(k) If    Sector_(k) is connected, then any cut that separates cells in    SOD_(k) has at least one common side of the hexagonal cells. Let    S1_(k) be a proper subset of SOD_(k), that is, S1_(k) ⊂ SOD_(k),    S1_(k)≠ϕ, and S1_(k)≠SOD_(k). Also let S2_(k) be the opposite set of    S1_(k), that is, S2_(k)=SOD_(k)−S1_(k). Because two subsets are    connected, there exists at least one common side of the DRUs    separated by the subsets. Thus we have

$\begin{matrix}{{\sum\limits_{i \in {S1_{k}}}{\sum\limits_{j \in {S2_{k}}}B_{ij}}} \geq 1} & (8)\end{matrix}$

Now, our QoS function is the weighted combination of three KPIs (costfactors) which we have already introduced. Obviously our objectivefunction is to maximize the QoS function. They are penalties of blockedcalls by hard and soft capacities and handoff calls. The DRUsectorization can be formulated as the following mixed integer linearprogramming.

$\begin{matrix}{{{Minimize}{{QoS}^{- 1} = {{w_{1} \cdot {KPI}_{BC}^{- 1}} + {w_{2} \cdot {KPI}_{HO}^{- 1}} + {w_{3} \cdot {KPI}_{CI}^{- 1}}}}{{Subject}\mspace{14mu} {to}\text{:}}{{\sum\limits_{k}x_{ik}} = {1\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i}}{w_{ijk} \leq x_{ik}},{w_{ijk} \leq {x_{jk}\mspace{14mu} {and}\mspace{14mu} w_{ijk}} \geq {x_{ik} + x_{jk} - 1}}}\mspace{14mu} {{{for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i},{j\mspace{14mu} {and}\mspace{14mu} k}}{{w_{ij} = {1 - {\sum\limits_{k}{w_{ijk}\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i}}}},j}{y_{im} = {\sum\limits_{k \in {SOS}_{m}}{x_{ik}\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} m}}}{{z_{ijm} \leq y_{im}},{z_{ijm} \leq {y_{jm}\mspace{14mu} {and}\mspace{14mu} z_{ijm}} \geq {y_{im} + y_{jm} - 1}}}\mspace{14mu} {{{for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i},{j\mspace{14mu} {and}\mspace{14mu} m}}{{z_{ij} = {1 - {\sum\limits_{k}{z_{ijk}\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i}}}},j}{{\sum\limits_{i \in {S\; 1_{k}}}{\sum\limits_{j \in {S\; 2_{k}}}B_{ij}}} \geq 1}{{{for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} S\; 1_{k}} \Subset {{{SOD}_{k}\mspace{14mu} {where}\mspace{14mu} S\; 1_{k}} \neq {\varphi \mspace{14mu} {and}}}}{{{S\; 1_{k}} \neq {{SOD}_{k}\mspace{14mu} {and}\mspace{14mu} S\; 2_{k}}} = {{SOD}_{k} - {S\; 1_{k}}}}{h_{ij} = {p_{ij}T_{i}\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i\mspace{14mu} {and}\mspace{14mu} j}}{{hc}_{m} = {{\sum\limits_{i}{T_{i}y_{im}}} - {{HC}_{m}\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} m}}}{{sc}_{k} = \left\{ {{\begin{matrix}0 & {{{if}\mspace{14mu} {\sum{T_{i}x_{ik}}}} < {SC}_{k}} \\{{\sum\limits_{i}{T_{i}x_{ik}}} - {SC}_{k}} & {otherwise}\end{matrix}\mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} kx_{ik}},w_{ijk},z_{ijm},{P_{k} \in {\left\{ {0,1} \right\} \mspace{14mu} {for}\mspace{14mu} {all}\mspace{14mu} i}},j,{k\mspace{14mu} {and}\mspace{14mu} m}} \right.}} & (9)\end{matrix}$

Note that many grouping problems which are special cases of thesectorization problem are well-known NP-hard problems. Since our problemis NP hard, the time it takes to execute the algorithm is exponentiallyincreasing with the size of the problem. Such an algorithm is thus inmost cases unusable for real-world size problem. As an encouragingresult on NP-hard problems, we investigate evolutionary algorithms tosolve the sectorization problem and compare the performance with thesolutions obtained by the mixed integer programming.

Estimation Distribution Algorithm (EDA)

Unlike other evolutionary algorithms, in EDA a new population ofindividuals in each generation is generated without crossover andmutation operators. Instead, in EDA a new population is generated basedon a probability distribution, which is estimated from the best selectedindividuals of previous generation. We introduce each main-vector as anindividual for our EDA approach, and also our fitness function isobjective function that we mentioned it in section III. In general,conventional EDAs can be characterized by parameters and notations:

(I_(s),F,Δ_(l),η_(l),β_(l),p_(s),Γ,I_(Ter))   (11)

where

-   1) I_(s) is the space of all potential solutions (entire search    space of individuals).-   2) F denotes a fitness function.-   3) Δ_(l) is the set of individuals (population) at the l_(th)    generation.-   4) η_(l) is the set of best candidate solutions selected from set    Δ_(l) at the l_(th) generation.-   5) We denote β_(l)≡Δ_(l)−η_(l)≡Δ_(l) ∩ η_(l) ^(C). where η_(l) ^(C)    is the complement of η_(l).-   6) p_(s) is the selection probability. The EDA algorithm selects    p_(s)|Δ_(l)| individuals from set Δ_(l) to make up set η_(l).-   7) We denote by Γ the distribution estimated from η_(l) (the set of    selected candidate solutions) at each generation.-   8) I_(Ter) are the maximum number of generation    In conventional EDAs, each individual is designated by a string. A    typical EDA is described in the following steps:-   Step 0: Generate initial population Δ₀. The initial population (|Δ₀|    individuals) is typically obtained by sampling according the uniform    (equally likely) distribution:

$\begin{matrix}{\mspace{56mu} {{\left( {\theta_{1},\theta_{2},\ldots \;,\theta_{n}} \right) = {\prod\limits_{i = 1}^{n}{p_{i}\left( \theta_{i} \right)}}},}} & \; \\{{{i = 1},2,\ldots \;,n,{and}}\mspace{14mu} {{p_{i}\left( {\theta_{i} = S_{11}} \right)} = {{p_{i}\left( {\theta_{i} = S_{21}} \right)} = {\ldots = {{p_{i}\left( {\theta_{i} = S_{{{SOS}_{M}}M}} \right)} = \frac{1}{\sum\limits_{n = 1}^{M}{{SOS}_{n}}}}}}}} & (12)\end{matrix}$

For generation l=1, 2, . . . , follow steps 1 through 6

-   Step 1: Evaluate the individuals in the current population Δ_(l−1)    according to the fitness function F. Sort the candidate solutions    (individuals in the current population) according to their fitness    orders.-   Step 2: If the best candidate solution satisfies the convergence    criterion or the number of generation exceeds its limit I_(Ter),    then terminate; else go to step 3.-   Step 3: Select the best p_(s)Δ_(l−1) candidate solutions    (individuals) from current population This selection is accomplished    according to the sorted candidate solutions.-   Step 4: Estimate the probability distribution p(θ₁, θ₂, . . . ,    θ_(n)) on the basis of |η_(l−1)| best candidate solutions. We denote    this estimation by

=P(θ₁, θ₂, . . . , θ_(n)|η_(l−1))

-   Step 5: Generate new |Δ_(l−1)|−|η_(l−1)| individuals on the basis of    this new estimated probability distribution F . Replace the bad    |β_(l−1)| individuals with newly generated |Δ_(l−1)|−|η_(l−1)|    individuals.-   Step 6: Go to step 1 and repeat the steps

We followed the steps of the above pseudo code for our EDAimplementation. In our experimentation, for estimation (13), we used asimple scheme of estimating the marginal distributions separately andusing product form

$\begin{matrix}{= {{p\left( {\theta_{1},\theta_{2},\ldots \;,\left. \theta_{n} \middle| \eta_{l - 1} \right.} \right)} = {{\prod\limits_{i = 1}^{n}{p_{i}\left( \theta_{i} \middle| \eta_{l - 1} \right)}} = {\prod\limits_{i = 1}^{n}\left( \frac{\sum_{j = 1}^{\eta_{l - 1}}{\delta \left( {x_{i}^{j} = \left. \theta_{i} \middle| \eta_{l - 1} \right.} \right)}}{\eta_{l - 1}} \right)}}}} & (14)\end{matrix}$

Where δ is an indicator function and it can be expressed as

$\begin{matrix}{{\delta \left( {x_{i}^{j} = \left. \theta \middle| \eta_{l - 1} \right.} \right)} = \left\{ \begin{matrix}1 & {{{if}\mspace{14mu} x_{i}^{j}} = \theta} \\0 & {otherwise}\end{matrix} \right.} & (15)\end{matrix}$

It is also understood that the examples and embodiments described hereinare for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications orchanges in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the artand are to be included within the spirit and purview of this applicationand scope of the appended claims.

Appendix I is a glossary of terms used herein, including acronyms.

APPENDIX I Glossary of Terms

-   ACLR Adjacent Channel Leakage Ratio-   ACPR Adjacent Channel Power Ratio-   ADC Analog to Digital Converter-   AQDM Analog Quadrature Demodulator-   AQM Analog Quadrature Modulator-   AQDMC Analog Quadrature Demodulator Corrector-   AQMC Analog Quadrature Modulator Corrector-   BPF Bandpass Filter-   CDMA Code Division Multiple Access-   CFR Crest Factor Reduction-   DAC Digital to Analog Converter-   DET Detector-   DHMPA Digital Hybrid Mode Power Amplifier-   DDC Digital Down Converter-   DNC Down Converter-   DPA Doherty Power Amplifier-   DQDM Digital Quadrature Demodulator-   DQM Digital Quadrature Modulator-   DSP Digital Signal Processing-   DUC Digital Up Converter-   EER Envelope Elimination and Restoration-   EF Envelope Following-   ET Envelope Tracking-   EVM Error Vector Magnitude-   FFLPA Feedforward Linear Power Amplifier-   FIR Finite Impulse Response-   FPGA Field-Programmable Gate Array-   GSM Global System for Mobile communications-   I-Q In-phase/Quadrature-   IF Intermediate Frequency-   LINC Linear Amplification using Nonlinear Components-   LO Local Oscillator-   LPF Low Pass Filter-   MCPA Multi-Carrier Power Amplifier-   MDS Multi-Directional Search-   OFDM Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing-   PA Power Amplifier-   PAPR Peak-to-Average Power Ratio-   PD Digital Baseband Predistortion-   PLL Phase Locked Loop-   QAM Quadrature Amplitude Modulation-   QPSK Quadrature Phase Shift Keying-   RF Radio Frequency-   RRH Remote Radio Head-   RRU Remote Radio Head Unit-   SAW Surface Acoustic Wave Filter-   UMTS Universal Mobile Telecommunications System-   UPC Up Converter-   WCDMA Wideband Code Division Multiple Access-   WLAN Wireless Local Area Network

1.-19. (canceled)
 20. A system comprising: one or more Digital AccessUnits (DAUs) operable to receive at least one signal from at least oneof a first signal source and a second signal source from one or more ofa plurality of signal sources, each DAU of the one or more DAUsincluding an input port configured as an uplink/downlink port and anoutput port configured as an uplink/downlink port; one or more DigitalRemote Units (DRUs) connectable to the one or more DAUs and operable totransport signals between one or more of the one or more DRUs and theone or more DAUs; a plurality of radio resources formed from the one ormore DRUs comprising a first radio resource and a second radio resourcedifferent from the first radio resource, each radio resource comprisinga subset of the plurality of DRUs; a traffic monitoring unit coupled toeach of the DAUs, wherein the traffic monitoring unit is configured totrack radio resource utilization at one or more of the ports; and anetwork optimization processor, coupled to the traffic monitoring unit,operable to reconfigure one or more portions of the system.
 21. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein the network optimization processor comprisesan optimization algorithm.
 22. The system of claim 20, wherein thenetwork optimization processor comprises an optimization goal.
 23. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein the network optimization processor includesa network optimization goal and an optimization algorithm configured to,based on traffic measurements, optimize performance of the system. 24.The system of claim 23, wherein the optimization does not requiremaximum values for traffic management metrics, but also includesdistribution of traffic that improves system performance while remainingshort of maximum performance.
 25. The system of claim 20, wherein thenetwork optimization processor is in a different server than the trafficmonitor unit.
 26. The system of claim 20, wherein the networkoptimization processor is further operable to model rebalancing oftraffic load.
 27. The system of claim 20, wherein the networkoptimization processor is further operable to rebalance a traffic loadat each DAU in the system.
 28. The system of claim 20, furthercomprising a one or more Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) coupled to theone or more DAUs, wherein each BTS comprises the plurality of radioresources.
 29. The system of claim 20, further comprising a networkoptimization goal comprising a percentage of users associated with eachof the plurality of radio resources.
 30. The system of claim 20, whereinthe traffic monitoring unit is external to the one or more DAUs.
 31. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein the traffic monitoring unit is provided as acomponent of each of the one or more DAUs.
 32. The system of claim 20,wherein the traffic monitoring unit is external to the one or more DRUs.33. The system of claim 20, wherein the traffic monitoring unit isprovided as a component of each of the one or more DRUs.
 34. The systemof claim 20, wherein the traffic monitoring unit is configured toanalyze Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) of the DAS.
 35. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the traffic monitoring unit is configured to analyzeQuality of Service (QoS) values of the DAS.
 36. The system of claim 20,wherein the traffic monitoring unit, cooperating with one or more of theDAUs, provides for optimization of a DAS network and the trafficmonitoring unit is external to the DAUs.
 37. A method comprising:receiving, at one or more Digital Access Units (DAUs), at least onesignal from at least one of a first signal source and a second signalsource from one or more of a plurality of signal sources, each DAU ofthe one or more DAUs including an input port configured as anuplink/downlink port and an output port configured as an uplink/downlinkport; transporting signals between one or more Digital Remote Units(DRUs) and the one or more DAUs; managing a plurality of radio resourcesformed from the one or more DRUs comprising a first radio resource and asecond radio resource different from the first radio resource, eachradio resource comprising a subset of the plurality of DRUs; tracking,by a traffic monitoring unit coupled to each of the DAUs, radio resourceutilization at one or more of the ports; and reconfiguring, by a networkoptimization processor coupled to the traffic monitoring unit, one ormore portions of a distributed antenna system.
 38. The method of claim37, further comprising optimizing performance using an optimizationalgorithm based on traffic measurements.
 39. The method of claim 37,further comprising rebalancing a traffic load at each DAU in the system.